Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by involuntary movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulties with balance and coordination. While the disease gradually worsens over time, it can also lead to mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue.
Unraveling the Causes of Parkinson’s Disease
Scientists are still unraveling the exact causes of Parkinson’s disease. However, they have identified that the disease occurs when nerve cells in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain responsible for movement control, become impaired or die. These cells produce a crucial brain chemical called dopamine, which is responsible for regulating movement. When they die or become impaired, dopamine production decreases, resulting in the movement problems associated with Parkinson's.
Picture: A computer-generated graphic of the brain with labels pointing to the basal ganglia.
In addition to dopamine, people with Parkinson's disease also experience a loss of nerve endings that produce norepinephrine. This chemical messenger is part of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls various bodily functions like heart rate and blood pressure. The loss of norepinephrine may explain some of the non-movement symptoms of Parkinson's, such as fatigue, irregular blood pressure, digestive issues, and orthostatic hypotension.
Furthermore, the presence of abnormal clumps of the protein alpha-synuclein, known as Lewy bodies, in the brain cells of Parkinson's patients is also being studied. Scientists are exploring the relationship between alpha-synuclein and genetic variations that contribute to the development of Parkinson's and Lewy body dementia.
While some cases of Parkinson's disease have a hereditary component, the majority of cases seem to be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease manifests through a range of symptoms, with the most common being:
- Tremors in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head
- Muscle stiffness, causing prolonged muscle contractions
- Slowness of movement
- Impaired balance and coordination, leading to falls
Other symptoms can include depression, difficulty swallowing, chewing, and speaking, urinary problems, constipation, and skin issues. The progression and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Early symptoms may be subtle, such as mild tremors or difficulty getting out of a chair, while later stages may affect both sides of the body.
It's essential to recognize that some individuals may experience non-movement symptoms before experiencing stiffness and tremors. These symptoms can include sleep problems, constipation, loss of smell, and restless legs. If these symptoms worsen or interfere with daily living, it's crucial to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
Cognition and Parkinson’s Disease
In some cases, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience changes in cognitive function, including memory problems, attention difficulties, and the inability to plan and complete tasks. Stress, depression, and certain medications may contribute to these cognitive changes.
With the progression of the disease, some people may develop Parkinson's dementia, a type of Lewy body dementia. This can lead to severe memory and thinking problems that significantly impact daily living. If thinking or memory issues are present, it's important to discuss them with a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosing Parkinson's disease usually involves a medical history review and a neurological examination. Currently, there are no blood or laboratory tests to diagnose non-genetic cases of Parkinson's. However, if symptoms improve with medication, it further confirms the diagnosis. It's crucial to differentiate Parkinson's from other disorders that may have similar symptoms, as they require different treatments. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential.
While there is no known cure for Parkinson's disease, various treatments can help alleviate symptoms. Medications play a vital role in managing the disease, such as levodopa, which increases dopamine levels in the brain. Other medications, such as dopamine agonists and enzyme inhibitors, may also be prescribed to regulate dopamine production and control symptoms.
In cases where medication is ineffective, deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be recommended. DBS involves surgically implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain to stimulate movement control. This procedure can help alleviate symptoms like tremors, slowness of movement, and rigidity.
Other therapies, including physical, occupational, and speech therapies, a healthy diet, exercise, massage therapy, and activities like yoga and tai chi, can also aid in managing Parkinson's symptoms.
Finding Support for Parkinson’s Disease
As Parkinson's disease progresses, it can impact a person's daily routines and activities. Coping with these changes can be challenging, but support groups are available to provide information, advice, and connections to resources. These groups offer valuable support to individuals living with Parkinson's, their families, and caregivers. Local organizations can help find suitable support groups and other resources within the community.
Further Information about Parkinson’s Disease
For more information about Parkinson's disease and related topics, the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA) is a reliable resource. NIA scientists and experts review their content to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Remember, if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms or have concerns about Parkinson's disease, consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
Content reviewed: April 14, 2022
